La Croix de Boyd Cantenac Margaux 2018

La Croix de Boyd-Cantenac is the second wine of Château Boyd-Cantenac, a respected Third Growth (Troisième Cru) estate from the Margaux appellation in Bordeaux's Left Bank. Margaux is renowned for its refined, aromatic, and age-worthy wines, benefiting from the region's gravelly soils, which provide excellent drainage and promote the ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon. Château Boyd-Cantenac, a family-run estate, follows traditional Bordeaux winemaking practices, ensuring that La Croix de Boyd-Cantenac reflects the finesse and complexity.

This classic Margaux blend consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure, dark fruit, and ageing potential, while Merlot adds roundness and red fruit character, and Petit Verdot contributes spice and depth. La Croix de Boyd-Cantenac offers a more approachable and fruit-forward style than the estate's Grand Vin but retains the elegance and ageing potential typical of Margaux wines.

The grapes undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve their purity and freshness. Malolactic fermentation softens acidity and enhances the wine's roundness. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels (a portion of which are new) for 12 to 18 months, allowing for the integration of oak influences while maintaining a balance of fruit and structure.

The 2018 vintage presents a deep ruby-purple colour. The nose is expressive, with aromas of black cherry, blackberry compote, and a touch of nougat, complemented by toasty oak nuances. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, with vivid tannins and layered complexity. Notes of dark berries, spice, and minerality lead into a fresh, persistent finish.

This red wine pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, lamb, and game dishes. It also complements earthy mushroom-based dishes and mature cheeses like Comté or aged Gouda. Consider decanting for 45–60 minutes before serving at 16–18°C.